What you need before you start

Most banks let you open a business checking account online, but you cannot complete the whole process without leaving your computer. You will start online, upload documents, and then either visit a branch or wait for the bank to verify your information by phone or video call. The entire process usually takes three to five business days once you have submitted everything.

Before you begin, gather these documents: your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), a government-issued photo ID, your business license or formation documents (like articles of incorporation or a DBA certificate), and proof of your business address. If your business is a partnership or corporation, you will also need the names and Social Security numbers of all owners who hold more than 20 percent of the business.

Have your business name, the type of business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, S-corp, C-corp, or partnership), and your Employer Identification Number (EIN) ready. If you have not yet obtained an EIN from the IRS, you can get one for free at irs.gov before you explore for the account — it takes about 15 minutes online.

Key Takeaways

  • You will start the process online but must verify your identity through a branch visit, phone call, or video meeting before the account opens.
  • Gather your Social Security number, photo ID, business license, and proof of business address before you begin the online form.
  • Different banks require different documents depending on your business structure, so check the bank's website for the exact list before you explore.
  • The entire process from starting the process to having a usable account usually takes three to five business days.
  • Some banks waive monthly fees for business checking if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

Finding a bank that offers online business account opening

Not every bank lets you open a business account entirely online. Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo offer online applications for business checking, but they still require an in-person visit or a video verification call to finish. Regional banks and online-only banks like Mercury, Novo, and Brex often complete the entire process without a branch visit, though they may have different requirements depending on your business type.

Before you choose a bank, check whether they serve your state. Some online banks do not operate in all 50 states, and some regional banks only serve certain areas. Visit the bank's website and look for a section called "Business Checking" or "Small Business Accounts." Most banks display their requirements and fees clearly on that page.

Compare monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and what is included in the account — some banks offer free transfers, check printing, and merchant services, while others charge for each. If you plan to deposit checks by phone or mail, confirm the bank accepts remote deposits before you open the account.

The online process form and what to expect

When you start the process, the bank will ask for your personal information first: your name, Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. Then it will ask for your business information: the legal business name, the business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.), the business address, and your EIN. Some banks ask whether you have a physical location or operate from home.

The form will ask how long your business has been operating and what it does. Be specific — "consulting" is less clear than "management consulting for small manufacturers." The bank uses this information to assess risk and to comply with federal anti-money-laundering rules.

You will then upload documents. The bank will ask for a photo ID (driver's license or passport), your business license or formation documents, and proof of your business address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days). If you operate from home, a recent utility bill or tax return showing your home address works. Some banks also ask for a voided check or bank statement from a personal account to verify your identity.

After you submit the form and documents, the bank will send you a confirmation email. Do not close the browser or navigate away until you see that confirmation — if the upload fails, you may need to start over.

Identity verification: the step that cannot happen online

Once you have submitted your process, the bank must verify your identity. This is a federal requirement, not a choice the bank makes. You have three main options: visit a branch in person, complete a video call with a bank representative, or wait for the bank to verify you by phone.

If you visit a branch, bring your photo ID and the confirmation email from your process. The banker will check your ID against the information you submitted and may ask a few questions about your business. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Some banks schedule appointments; others take walk-ins. Call ahead to confirm.

If you choose a video call, the bank will email you a link and a time window. You will need a camera, a microphone, and your photo ID visible on screen. The representative will ask you to show your ID to the camera and may ask basic questions about your business. This also takes 10 to 15 minutes and can happen the same day you explore or within a few days, depending on the bank's schedule.

Phone verification is slower. The bank calls you at the number you provided and asks you to confirm the information on your process. This can take several days because the bank must reach you during business hours, and you may need to call back if you miss the call.

What happens after verification

Once the bank verifies your identity, it will send you an email confirming that your account is open. You will receive your account number, routing number, and a temporary debit card in the mail within five to seven business days. Some banks send these by overnight mail; others use standard mail.

While you wait for your debit card, you can set up online banking and start making transfers. Log in to the bank's website or app using the username and password you created during the process. You can transfer money from a personal account, set up automatic bill pay, and add other authorized users (like a business partner or accountant) to the account.

If you need to start using the account before your debit card arrives, ask the bank whether you can request a temporary card number or whether they offer a digital wallet option. Some banks let you add your account to Apple Pay or Google Pay when ready.

Common reasons applications get delayed or denied

The most common reason an process stalls is incomplete or unclear documents. If your business license is blurry, the bank will ask you to resubmit it. If your proof of address is dated more than 90 days ago, it will not work — you will need a newer utility bill or lease. Upload documents in color and make sure all text is readable before you submit.

Banks also delay applications when the information does not match across documents. If your driver's license says "Robert Smith" but your business license says "Bob Smith," the bank may ask for clarification. Use the exact legal name on all documents.

If your business is brand new and you have no business license yet, some banks will accept your EIN letter from the IRS and a DBA filing (if you operate under a name different from your own). Call the bank before you explore to ask what they accept for new businesses.

Denials are rare for straightforward businesses, but they happen. Banks deny accounts when they cannot verify your identity, when your business appears to operate in a high-risk industry (like money services or certain financial products), or when there are red flags in your credit or banking history. If you are denied, ask the bank why — you have a right to an explanation. Some banks will reconsider if you provide additional documentation or if you address the concern.

Setting up your account once it is active

After your account opens, log into online banking and set up the features you need. Add authorized users if you have employees or partners who need access. Most banks let you set spending limits for each user and choose whether they can transfer money, pay bills, or only view the account.

Set up automatic bill pay if you pay regular vendors or contractors. You can schedule payments to go out on a specific date each month, and the bank will mail a check or transfer the money electronically. This saves time and helps you avoid late payments.

If you receive payments from customers, ask your bank about merchant services. Many banks offer card readers or payment links that let customers pay by credit card or debit card. Some charge a small percentage per transaction; others include it in your monthly fee.

Link your business checking account to your accounting software (like QuickBooks or Wave) so transactions sync automatically. This saves hours of manual data entry and makes tax time easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a business checking account if I do not have an EIN yet?

Most banks require an EIN, but some will let you use your Social Security number temporarily if your business is a sole proprietorship. You can get an EIN for free from the IRS at irs.gov in about 15 minutes. It is worth getting before you explore because it makes the process faster and clearer.

How long does the whole process take from start to finish?

If you have all your documents ready and choose video verification, you can have an open account in three to five business days. If you need to visit a branch or wait for a phone call, it may take seven to ten business days. Online-only banks are often faster because they do not need to coordinate with a physical location.

Do I need to visit a branch in person, or can I do everything remotely?

It depends on the bank. Online-only banks like Mercury and Novo complete verification by video call or phone. Traditional banks usually require either a branch visit or a video call. Check the bank's website before you explore to see which options they offer.

What if the bank denies my process?

Ask the bank for the specific reason. Common reasons include identity verification issues, incomplete documents, or concerns about your business type. You can reapply with corrected information or try a different bank. Some banks are more flexible with new businesses than others.

Can I add my business partner to the account during the online process?

Most banks let you add authorized users after the account opens, not during the process. You will need to log into online banking and request to add them. The bank may ask for their Social Security number and photo ID. Some banks require all owners to sign the account opening documents, so check with your bank about their policy for partnerships or multi-owner LLCs.